Using a Revolver

[BobT]

I have a Ruger Vacquero .44mag revolver. For some reason I can't seem to be able to establish consistency with my shot placement. I have never received any instruction or training with the use of a handgun so that's my first disclaimer. I also believe that I have a flinching problem or at least a problem with how I use the gun. I do not fear it and have no problem using it one handed. For some reason I seem to place my shots low and left (I shoot it right-handed). I believe I know part of the problem I just haven't proven it to myself yet. My theory is that I suspect I tense up when I shoot it and in effect push into it forcing the muzzle down and left. 

Does anyone know where I might find a good instructional video online? What is the preferred stance, grip, etc? 

Another thought is that the hand grip is small and this makes it hard to hold the pistol with a comfortable stability. I've been thinking about getting a different grip similar to the attached figure. Is this something that may help me gain more stability?

Any other pointers would be great.

Thanks.

[leech~~]

How long it the barrel? Big guns with short barrels are hard to control at much distance. I use to have a Black hawk I took a deer with and it had about a 9" barrel.

[BobT]

7-1/2". 

[Archerysniper]

It's probably how you press the trigger,their is a diagram out their that show where your grouping is and what the cause of it. 

[ZachD]

Right hand shooter low left causes   

 jerking or slapping trigger, tightening fingers

[BobT]

I got my new grips and man what a different feel! Much more secure and stable. They also are long enough to fit my palm and I can grip the handgun with all three fingers instead of just two. It's not a light trigger so it does take a little effort and I'm hoping this will help me squeeze the trigger with more efficiency and less distortion and movement. 

Here's how they look on the Vacquero. Took about 5 minutes to install. 

 

[leech~~]

Nice and they will help in controlling that big bad boy!

[BobT]

Hope so. I'm anxious to try it out.

[leech~~]

There are a few other sights you could try as well that may help.

[Neighbor_guy]

I had a .44mag vacquero once. 

The safest place on the range was directly in front of or directly behind the target. The thing was a fantastic paper weight, but a terrible gun. It was not around long enough to get dust on it and down the road it went. 

[Finns]

12 minutes ago, Neighbor_guy said:

I had a .44mag vacquero once. 

The safest place on the range was directly in front of or directly behind the target. The thing was a fantastic paper weight, but a terrible gun. It was not around long enough to get dust on it and down the road it went. 

Why?

[leech~~]

Pretty much what I had 44 Stainless Blackhawk. Loved the gun, reloaded my own target and hunting loads. I took a running Doe with it at about 40 yards.

[Neighbor_guy]

8 hours ago, Finns said:

Why?

No matter what I tried I couldn't get it to hit where it was pointed. Tried standing, sitting, shooting from a bench, bipod, 17 types of ammunition, you name it I tried it.  No matter what I would be lucky to hit a 10" paper plate from more than 15' away. 

No point keeping something you can't shoot. Let someone else struggle with it. 

[BobT]

I have had others use it with more handgun experience and they didn't seem to have too much trouble. I know I'm part of the problem.

[Dave S]

my guess is you're clenching your hand as you pull the trigger, forcing the low/left result. Your trigger pull should be just your finger easing the trigger back. Don't put to much thought into it before you shoot. The more you contemplate, the worse it will get. 

 

I used to shoot a 7mm-08 in a pistol with good results. It took practice but 3 shots at 100 yards covered by a dime isn't too shabby. That was shooting off a sand bag of course. No way I could have done that in a free stance.

[monstermoose78]

This year I wish I had my pistol. Next year I will carry it everyday